GUWAHATI: The Assam government has introduced new regulations governing the opening of liquor shops and the relocation of existing outlets, aiming to ensure a more balanced distribution of liquor licences across the state.
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Under the revised rules, new Off shops will not be allowed to open in close proximity to existing liquor outlets. In Kamrup Metro, a minimum distance of 500 metres must be maintained between two shops. The minimum distance requirement is 1 kilometre in other urban areas and 2 kilometres in rural areas.
The new zoning norms are expected to curb the concentration of liquor shops in densely populated and commercially attractive locations.
The government has also tightened rules related to the shifting of liquor shops. Existing outlets will no longer be permitted to relocate from rural areas to urban centres. Similarly, liquor shops from other districts cannot be shifted into Kamrup Metro.
However, certain relocations will continue to be allowed. Shops currently operating in Kamrup Metro may be shifted to other districts, while urban-to-rural relocation may be permitted under specific circumstances.
Officials say the changes are intended to promote a more equitable distribution of liquor outlets and prevent excessive concentration of licences in lucrative urban markets.
The revised regulations mark a significant change in the state's approach to liquor retail management, with a greater focus on zoning controls and planned expansion.